The Abia State Government has announced plans to convert the recently commissioned Government House into a five-star hotel, citing major structural deficiencies and significant security concerns.
Speaking during a media tour of the facility on Thursday, the State Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, revealed that the building commissioned by the previous administration just a day before leaving office was constructed within a densely populated private residential area, posing a potential threat to the governor’s safety.
According to Kanu, the structure lacks critical features expected of an executive government facility. “There is no functional elevator, and the upper floors are largely incomplete and structurally unsound. Only the first floor was completed and furnished, despite the substantial public funds invested in the project,” he said.
He further criticized the location, stressing that the proximity of private buildings compromises the security of any sitting governor.
“It is not ideal nor is it secure for the governor to reside here. The surrounding residential buildings have clear views into the premises, which is a major security risk,” he added.
Kanu dismissed claims by the former Commissioner for Information, John Okiyi Kalu, who had accused Governor Alex Otti of using propaganda to malign the previous administration led by Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu.
“This facility is simply not fit for its intended purpose. The decision to repurpose it into a luxury hotel is based on practicality and public safety, not politics,” Kanu said.
He urged the public to disregard earlier reports suggesting that the Government House project had been completed and properly delivered by the past administration.
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